The double Beijing Olympic champion declared herself to be the "happiest person ever" after boyfriend Harry Needs, a fellow swimmer, popped the question.

Adlington (24), who announced her retirement from competitive swimming last month, told her Twitter followers: "Had the best weekend ever!!! Thank you @Harryneeds for making me the happiest person ever right now #engaged #isaidyes."

The star from Mansfield added she had been celebrating with friends after the proposal.

"Had an amazing day with some amazing people! #happy #lucky", she wrote.